Method for Determining a Position-Dependent Attenuation Map of Surface Coils of a Magnetic Resonance-PET Device

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention relates to a method for automatically determining the position-dependent attenuation (signal loss) effects caused by at least one surface coil used in a combined Magnetic Resonance (MR) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) device. By acquiring MR images and locating the exact position of the surface coils during a scan, the method creates accurate attenuation maps to improve imaging results. The patent also covers a medical device and computer software implementing the technique.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Improving the accuracy of MR/PET scans in hospitals and diagnostic centers
• Automatic calibration and correction of images in hybrid MR/PET imaging systems
• Development of advanced medical imaging software for use with surface coils
• Retrospective correction of previously acquired MR/PET images to remove coil-related artifacts

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enhances image quality and diagnostic accuracy in MR/PET scans by accounting for coil-induced attenuation
• Reduces the need for manual intervention or estimation, thus saving time and reducing human error
• Enables more precise, patient-specific correction, leading to more reliable clinical information
• Facilitates the integration of surface coils in hybrid imaging systems without compromising image fidelity

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Patent Abstract

A method is disclosed for determining a position-dependent attenuation map of at least one surface coil of a combined magnetic resonance/PET apparatus. In an embodiment, the method includes acquiring magnetic resonance image data by way of the at least one surface coil during a magnetic resonance/PET examination of a patient; reconstructing the position of the at least one surface coil on the basis of the acquired magnetic resonance image data; and determining the position-dependent attenuation map of the at least one surface coil on the basis of the reconstructed position of the at least one surface coil. A magnetic resonance/PET apparatus and a computer program product, embodied to perform the method, are also disclosed.